AMERICAN DREAM, NEW JERSEY’S LARGEST LUXURY FASHION AND ENTERTAINMENT DESTINATION, IS OFFERING A FULL LINEUP OF FESTIVE FARE THIS SEASON, PLUS GIVEAWAYS, EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS, AND MORE

BY JENNIFER KELLY • PHOTOS COURTESY OF AMERICAN DREAM

The Avenue, a posh, immersive luxury shopping and dining experience at American Dream, is already flowing with high-end holiday gifts from brands like Gucci, Gentle Monster, Balenciaga, Ferrari, Cartier, Canada Goose, and others. But the East Rutherford shopping and entertainment destination is taking Christmas to new heights this season, dialing up the dazzle with a range of warm and cozy festive experiences that include live performances, costumed holiday greeters, and even a dreamy indoor winter wonderland with snow.

“American Dream is the place to be this holiday season if you are looking for exciting family fun, memorable experiences, and a unique shopping experience,” said Bryan Gaus, senior vice president and general manager of American Dream. “There’s something for everyone at our center with an extensive retail offering, great dining options, and state-of-the-art attractions to choose from. We can’t wait to spread joy and help our guests create cherished memories.”

The celebrations, beginning with Santa Claus’ arrival to the enchanting Holiday Dreamland on November 23, will run throughout the month of December. Local bands, artists, and performers will light up the Dream Stage all season, while friendly elves will greet shoppers on Fridays, Saturdays, and peak shopping days. In the Garden – a tranquil indoor oasis tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the retail stores – snowflakes will fall and twirl around visitors in a magical holiday dreamscape.

“Throughout the season, American Dream will be giving away incredible prizes, creating lasting memories, and spreading joy throughout the community,” Gaus noted.

The country’s first Sesame Street Learn & Play will also make its American Dream debut this season on November 16. This groundbreaking attraction combines education with fun, offering an immersive experience for guests of all ages through the enchanting world of Sesame Street.

Gucci / American Dream / East Rutheford New Jersey

“Combining our 50+ years of engaging educational content, starring the most beloved characters in children’s media, with American Dream’s expertise in building high-quality experiential offerings, we’re excited to introduce Sesame Street Learn & Play to children and families,” said Jennifer Ahearn, senior vice president, Global Strategic Partnerships & Themed Entertainment, Sesame Workshop. “Guests are invited to step into Elmo’s World, Hooper’s Store, and other fun stops for a hands-on playful learning adventure.”

The attraction will enable children to explore the rainforest as they step into Elmo’s World, role-play a shopping experience in Hooper’s Store, explore Abby Cadabby’s magical garden, and laugh with Bert and Ernie. Guests can capture memories in front of Sesame Street landmarks, such as the iconic 123 Stoop and Oscar’s trash can. Big Bird will entertain visitors with stories at his nest, while Elmo and Abby will make surprise appearances to add to the excitement.

At the Sesame Street Community Center, kids will enjoy hands-on arts and crafts, and at the Bike Shop, they’ll learn about cause and effect with cranks and gears. Kids can also head over to the Sesame Street Playground where they can climb, slide, and explore, discovering fun facts about nature along the way. There will also be a separate toddler play area for younger guests.

The holiday fare isn’t reserved solely for the kids. Several new stores and restaurants are scheduled to open during the festive season, including Bandai Namco, Garage, Miniso, Rent the Runway, and Sammy K Jewelers. The recently opened Gucci store is the largest in the state and the only location to carry a full line of both women’s and men’s ready-to-wear apparel.

Adult shoppers are also encouraged to step into the opulent Isola Bella, a newly opened champagne and caviar bar that features an exquisite lineup of jumbo shrimp cocktails, fresh oysters, caviar, smoked salmon, and decadent desserts. The space is creators Tom Billante and Alex Kalas’ third location in American Dream, joining Carpaccio and Mozzarella Bar.

“The Avenue remains unrivaled in our area and continues to set the standard for luxury shopping and dining,” noted Bryan Gaus. “Isola Bella will provide our guests with the chance to indulge in some of the finest champagne and seafood, while taking a breather from all the glamorous shopping.”

American Dream

1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford

833.263.7326 / americandream.com

AMERICAN DREAM’S MAIN HOLIDAY EVENTS:

SANTA’S DEBUT AT HOLIDAY DREAMLAND

Santa Claus will kick off the holiday season with a festive “Santa Spectacular” that includes a holiday performance followed by a celebratory parade led by St. Nick to his new home at Holiday Dreamland. Guests will receive a candy cane from IT’SUGAR. They can then schedule photos with Santa and enjoy Christmas cookie decorating at Marcus Live.

Date: November 23 at 11 a.m. Location: Dream Stage

SANTA PHOTOS AND SANTA PAWS

Snap some holiday cheer with Santa. In addition to traditional photos with Santa, enjoy an exclusive 15-minute Signature Santa Experience, complete with a personal visit, photo session, storytelling, holiday keepsake book, and a festive 2024 picture frame to cherish the holiday magic. Furry friends can also take a photo with Santa on Santa Paws Pet nights.

Dates: Santa Photos: November 15 – December 24, including Sundays; Santa Paws: Mondays (December 2, 9, and 16) from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. Location: Holiday Dreamland

BLACK FRIDAY WEEKEND

Extended shopping hours apply for Black Friday Weekend (November 29: 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.;November 30: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.). Early shoppers can also “Spin to Win” for instant prizes on Black Friday at 8 a.m., 10 a.m., and noon, and on November 30 from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. There will be a special “Characters of the Dream” parade on Black Friday at 11 a.m. Shoppers can browse for deals at luxury stores like Balenciaga, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Hermès, and more.

SPIN TO WIN

Throughout the holiday season, shoppers can Spin to Win for Instant Prizes.

Dates: November 29-30; Thursdays and Fridays in December Location: Court A

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA SHREK

Santa Shrek is hosting a breakfast at Marcus Live.

Date: December 7 Location: Marcus Live!

SANTA BRUNCH

Santa will also host a brunch at Carpaccio. The event features delicious treats and festive activities.

Dates: December 14, 15, 21, and 22 Location: Carpaccio